Aronia juice against pre-diabetes: A new source of hope for those affected!

Aronia juice against pre-diabetes: A new source of hope for those affected!

Scientists from the Institute for Circulatory Research and Sports Medicine are investigating the influence of aronia juice on people with pre-diabetes mellitus. This metabolic disorder, which often occurs without symptoms, is widespread in Germany. According to the Robert Koch Institute, one in five people between the ages of 18 and 79 has pre-diabetes. Long-term elevated blood sugar levels are a serious health risk as they can increase the likelihood of heart attacks, kidney and eye diseases, and various types of cancer.

A pilot study by the German Sport University Cologne shows promising results: daily consumption of aronia juice in combination with strength and endurance training appears to have positive effects on the health of the participants. This was investigated in a randomized-controlled, blinded study published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. Improvements in vascular resistance and muscle mass were noted after just two weeks.

Effects of aronia juice on pre-diabetes

The participants in the study consumed aronia juice instead of a placebo drink, in the morning and evening, some time after training. Dr. Sarah Valder explains that aronia juice contains many polyphenols, which can have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The study authors also refer to cell experiments that suggest an anabolic effect of aronia extract on muscle cells.

The German Diabetes Foundation supported the project financially, while the Eckes-Granini Group provided the necessary drinks. A follow-up study is already planned to examine in detail the effects of aronia juice consumption during strength training over a longer period of time. Prof. (FH) PD Dr. Christian Brinkmann from the German Sport University Cologne is available as a contact person.

Prevention through diet and exercise

Pre-diabetes is a warning sign of difficulty regulating blood sugar. However, while blood sugar levels are elevated, they are not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. In this context, a balanced diet is crucial for blood sugar control and weight loss. Important foods for people with pre-diabetes include:

• Komplexe Kohlenhydrate: Vollkornprodukte, Hülsenfrüchte und Nüsse – sie tragen zu einem gleichmäßigen Blutzuckerspiegel bei.
• Gemüse und Obst: Diese sind reich an Vitaminen, Mineralstoffen und Ballaststoffen und helfen, die Kohlenhydrataufnahme zu verlangsamen.
• Mageres Eiweiß: Fleisch, Fisch, Geflügel, Eier und Hülsenfrüchte unterstützen den Muskelaufbau und die Blutzuckerkontrolle.
• Gesunde Fette: Olivenöl, Nüsse und Samen verbessern die Insulinempfindlichkeit.
• Gesüßte Getränke: Softdrinks sollten gemieden und durch Wasser oder ungesüßten Tee ersetzt werden.
• Kleine, regelmäßige Mahlzeiten: Sie helfen, den Blutzuckerspiegel stabil zu halten.

In addition, it is recommended to keep a food diary and cook yourself so that you have control over the ingredients. Doctors, nutritionists and support groups can also provide valuable support. Combining exercise, weight loss and a healthy diet could not only lead to remission of type 2 diabetes, but also improve overall quality of life. Future research should focus on individual response to dietary treatments to translate findings into clinical practice.